Things To Do
in Mandi
Mandi is a hill town in Himachal Pradesh set along the Beas River, surrounded by forested hills and sweeping valleys. It functions as the district capital and a convenient gateway to the Kullu–Manali region, with a lively market and easy access to nature. The town blends Himachali culture with Tibetan Buddhist influences visible around Rewalsar Lake and in the architecture of its streets.
With a cool, comfortable climate most of the year, Mandi makes a good base for trekkers, pilgrims, and travelers seeking a relaxed mountain vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Mandi and check into your hotel, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Explore the local cuisine with a traditional breakfast at a local eatery. Stroll through the town to get a feel for its vibrant culture.
Visit the historic Bhutnath Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings make for a perfect afternoon exploration. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a quaint café nearby.
As the sun sets, relax by the banks of the Beas River, listening to the soothing sounds of flowing water. Dine at a riverside restaurant experiencing the local flavors of Himachali cuisine. End your day with a walk through Mandi's lively streets, mingling with friendly locals.
Drive to Prashar Lake, situated amidst the majestic Dhauladhar range, and enjoy the breathtaking views along the way. Upon arrival, take a refreshing trek around the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the serene waters. Capture photographs of the stunning landscapes and make sure to visit the ancient temple dedicated to Rishi Prashar.
Enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside, absorbing the natural beauty surrounding you. Spend the afternoon kayaking or simply relaxing by the water, experiencing the tranquility of the area. Engage with locals who often share stories of the lake's legends and myths.
Begin your journey back to Mandi as the sun casts beautiful hues across the sky. Once back, unwind at your hotel, reflecting on the day's adventures over a warm cup of chai. If time permits, take a leisurely evening stroll in Mandi town, embracing its charm at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transport | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $3-20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and a relaxed pace
- Good base for treks and exploring nearby valleys
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Hilly roads can be slow and occasionally disrupted by weather
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Nahi samajh aaya" - I didn’t understand
- "Mandi ki raat bara shaam" - Evening in Mandi
Places to Visit in Mandi
Visit one of these nice places.
A sacred lake with temples and monasteries on its shores; tranquil reflections and mountain backdrops, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Impressive Beas River gorge with a dramatic dam curve; a great spot for wide-angle river shots and sunset silhouettes.
Wooden façades, narrow lanes, and historic architecture offer compelling street photography and candid moments.
Riverside scenery with gentle cascades and lush green hills as a backdrop; ideal for afternoon light.
Food in Mandi
Mandi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed cornmeal bread filled with pulses, typically served with ghee or dal.
Must-Try!
A yogurt-based curry with spices and chickpea flour, usually paired with rice.
A tangy lamb or goat curry finished with chickpeas and aromatic spices.
A ceremonial Himachali feast served in layers with dal, rice, vegetables, and curries.
Fresh river trout, commonly grilled or shallow-fried, a signature Beas River dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can sample street snacks, buy dry fruits, woolens, and handicrafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes where required; ask before taking photos of people.
Bargaining is common in markets; be polite and smile, and agree on a price before purchases.
Safety
Tipping in Mandi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service in restaurants (about 5–10%), hotel staff, and guided tours; cash is preferred for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant days with cool mornings and evenings; temperatures typically range from mid-teens to the high 20s Celsius. A great time for treks, markets, and outdoor photography, but carry sun protection and light layers.
July–September brings lush greenery and sporadic heavy rain; landslide risk on some hill roads increases. Pack waterproofs, sturdy shoes, and be prepared for occasional road delays.
Cold to very cold nights with possible frosts; daytime highs are mild in lower areas but higher passes can be snowy. Warm clothing is essential; some higher routes may close after snowfall.
Mandi at Night
Hiking in Mandi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular route offering scenic lake views and a historic temple; suitable for a day hike.
Forest trails leading to a picturesque waterfall; accessible for a half-day outing.
Easy, picturesque riverside routes ideal for relaxed hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Mandi by plane.
Nearest major airport with domestic flights to Delhi and other cities; roughly 140–180 km by road from Mandi.
Domestic flights to Delhi; about 170–190 km away by road.
Another option with longer road travel; useful for connections via Delhi or other cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local residents speak Hindi and Himachali (Pahari) languages; strong culture of handicrafts and folk traditions.
Visible in Rewalsar and surrounding temples; contributes to a diverse cultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools, markets, and local grounds.
Popular in urban and rural communities alike; local leagues and school tournaments are common.
Trekking and adventure sports attract visitors; Bir Billing is a noted nearby destination for paragliding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mandi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant in most eateries; clearly request no meat or egg if needed, and enjoy dairy-rich Himachali staples like dhaam and chha.